Walmart Canada's annual campaign raises $2.6 million for Canadian Red Cross

OTTAWA, Sept. 24, 2012 /CNW/ - Walmart Canada announced today that its annual fundraising campaign has raised $2.6 million in support of Canadian Red Cross disaster and preparedness programming. The $2.6 million raised includes donations from customers across the country and Walmart Canada's corporate matching grants.

"Walmart Canada remains our largest corporate supporter, and we are extremely grateful for their generous and continued support of Red Cross disaster programming," said Conrad Sauvé, secretary general and CEO at the Canadian Red Cross. "With the recent threat of Hurricane Leslie in Atlantic Canada, Canadians were reminded of the possibility of large-scale disasters happening in our own backyard.  Funds raised through this annual campaign help ensure we are prepared to respond to the next call for help."

Walmart Canada's support helps the Canadian Red Cross provide emergency relief to disaster struck communities with basic supplies such as blankets, clothing, meals and hygiene kits. To date, Walmart Canada, its customers, associates and suppliers have donated and raised more than $21 million to the Canadian Red Cross.

"Walmart Canada is proud to play a pivotal role in providing urgently needed relief items during disasters and beyond," said Shelley Broader, president and CEO of Walmart Canada. "We are always standing by, ready to support the Canadian Red Cross to ensure our communities get the help they need when they need it the most."

The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and over 185 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

Walmart Canada operates a growing chain of more than 335 stores, employing 90,000 Canadians, serving more than one million customers each day. Walmart continues to be a leader in corporate philanthropy, sustainability and employment opportunity. Since 1994, the company has donated and raised more than $160 million to Canadian charities and not-for-profit organizations.

SOURCE: CANADIAN RED CROSS

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Red Cross media line: 613-740-1994

Walmart Canada Corporate Affairs, [email protected]